Human remains were discovered inside a chimney at a primary school in New York on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. Maintenance staff at P.S./I.S. 113 Anthony J Pranzo school in Glendale, Queens, found the body after investigating a foul-smelling odour. The school had already broken up for the summer at the end of last week, so no students or staff were present at the time.
Discovery during construction project
The building had been closed for a construction project, according to Fox News. Works relating to wiring and hot water heating had started on the premises over the last few days. Authorities are now accounting for all contractors who were on site. The remains were found at approximately 9 a.m. local time on Tuesday. Footage of the school's exterior showed scaffolding erected in one corner of the building close to a round steel chimney.
Police investigation ongoing
New York Police Department spokesperson said: 'On Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at approximately 0859 hours, police responded to a 911 call for possible human remains discovered in the vicinity of 87 Street and 78 Avenue, within the confines of the 104th Precinct. Upon arrival, officers were informed that possible human remains had been discovered inside a chimney at P.S./I.S. 113 Anthony J. Pranzo School. There were no students or school staff inside the building at the time of the discovery. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing.'
Education department responds
New York City's Department of Education said the discovery was 'deeply upsetting and concerning.' It remains unclear how long the body had been left in the chimney or how it ended up there. Metro has contacted NYC Public Schools for comment.
